ViewPoint Therapeutics

ViewPoint Therapeutics is developing small molecule therapeutics for protein-misfolding diseases, including cataracts. Cataracts are caused by the accumulation of aggregated protein in the lens, which scatters visible light and reduces lens transparency. We have discovered a class of small molecules that corrects cataracts when delivered topically to the eye. The molecules bind to the important lens protein ?-crystallin and stabilize its soluble, functional form, reversing protein aggregation and recovering the normal transparency of the lens. When dosed topically for an acute period of time, our lead candidate molecule is efficacious in genetic and non-genetic mouse models of disease and in ex vivo human cataract lenses. ViewPoint is translating this technology to develop therapeutics for companion animals as well as human patients.